The Camp Lejeune water contamination tragedy is one of the most heartbreaking environmental disasters in U.S. military history.
For decades, thousands of Marines, their families, and civilian employees stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, were unknowingly exposed to toxic chemicals in their drinking water, leading to countless health problems and even deaths.
While the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) now recognizes several diseases and conditions as presumptively associated with exposure to the contaminated water, many Camp Lejeune water contamination victims may not realize the importance of having a will to safeguard their rights and interests, both during their lifetime and after their passing.
In this article, we will explore why having a will is crucial for Camp Lejeune water contamination victims, and how it can offer them a sense of security by helping to secure their VA disability benefits, plan their estates, and provide peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones, should the need arise.
Understanding VA Disability Benefits
VA disability benefits are a form of compensation that the Department of Veterans Affairs provides to veterans and their dependents who have disabilities or illnesses related to their military service.
For Camp Lejeune water contamination victims, the VA recognizes several medical conditions as presumptively associated with exposure to the contaminated water, including:
To qualify for VA disability benefits, a Camp Lejeune water contamination victim must have a diagnosed medical condition that is related to their exposure to the contaminated water, and that affects their ability to work or perform daily activities.
They must also provide evidence of their military service and exposure to the contaminated water. The VA will review the evidence and determine the level of disability and the corresponding compensation.
It’s important to note that VA disability benefits are not automatic, and that many victims may not be aware of their eligibility or how to apply for them.
Moreover, VA disability benefits can be affected by many factors, such as changes in the victim’s health status, employment, or marital status.
The Importance of Estate Planning
Estate planning is the process of making arrangements for the management and distribution of your assets and property after you pass away.
While it may seem morbid or uncomfortable to think about, estate planning is essential for everyone, including Camp Lejeune water contamination victims.
Creating an estate plan can help you ensure that your assets and property are distributed according to your wishes, and that your loved ones are provided for after your passing.
It can also help you avoid unnecessary taxes, fees, and legal disputes, and give you peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in order.
For Camp Lejeune water contamination victims, estate planning can be especially important because it can help protect their VA disability benefits and other forms of compensation from being claimed by creditors or other parties.
Without a valid will or other estate planning documents, these benefits and compensations may not go to the intended recipients, which could cause financial hardships for the victim’s loved ones.
In addition, estate planning can help Camp Lejeune water contamination victims designate a trusted person to make medical or financial decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.
This is especially important for those who suffer from health conditions related to their exposure to the contaminated water, which can affect their cognitive and physical abilities.
The Benefits of Having a Will
Having a will is crucial for Camp Lejeune water contamination victims, as it can help them protect their rights and interests, and ensure that their wishes are carried out after their passing.
Here are some of the benefits of having a will:
1. Ensuring that Your Assets Are Distributed According to Your Wishes
One of the most significant benefits of having a will is that it allows you to specify how your assets and property will be distributed after your passing.
This can be especially important for Camp Lejeune water contamination victims, who may have specific wishes regarding the distribution of their VA disability benefits or other forms of compensation.
By having a will, Camp Lejeune water contamination victims can ensure that their assets and property go to the intended beneficiaries, whether it be family members, friends, or charitable organizations.
2. Nominating a Guardian for Your Minor Children
For Camp Lejeune water contamination victims who have minor children, a will can also allow them to nominate a guardian to care for their children in the event of their passing.
This can be especially important for those who have health conditions related to their exposure to the contaminated water, as it provides them with peace of mind knowing that their children will be cared for according to their wishes.
3. Minimizing Conflict Among Your Loved Ones
Another benefit of having a will is that it can help minimize conflicts among your loved ones after your passing.
By specifying how your assets and property will be distributed, you can reduce the likelihood of disputes and disagreements among your beneficiaries.
For Camp Lejeune water contamination victims, this can be especially important, as disputes over VA disability benefits or other forms of compensation can be emotionally and financially draining for their loved ones.
4. Appointing an Executor to Manage Your Estate
Finally, a will can allow Camp Lejeune water contamination victims to appoint an executor to manage their estate and ensure that their wishes are carried out.
An executor is responsible for paying any outstanding debts or taxes, distributing assets and property according to the will, and handling any legal issues that may arise.
By appointing an executor, Camp Lejeune water contamination victims can ensure that their estate is managed in a responsible and efficient manner, and that their loved ones are provided for after their passing.
In conclusion, having a will is crucial for Camp Lejeune water contamination victims to protect their rights and interests, plan their estates, and achieve peace of mind.
By seeking guidance from a qualified attorney or advisor, they can create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects their wishes and values, and gives them confidence for the future.
Despite some common concerns, such as disqualification for government benefits, disinheriting family members, or complicated family dynamics, these challenges can be overcome with proper estate planning and guidance.
By taking the time to plan their estates, Camp Lejeune water contamination victims can ensure that their wishes are carried out after their passing, and that their loved ones are provided for.
Helpful Resources
Here are some helpful resources for Camp Lejeune water contamination victims to learn more about estate planning:
- VA Benefits Assistance: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers free assistance to veterans and their families in preparing and filing claims for VA benefits. Visit the VA’s website or call their toll-free number to learn more.
- Local Legal Aid Clinics: Many communities have legal aid clinics that offer free or low-cost legal services to individuals who cannot afford a private attorney. Contact your local bar association or legal aid organization to find a clinic near you.
- National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys: The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) is a professional association of attorneys who specialize in estate planning, elder law, and other legal issues affecting seniors and their families. Visit their website to find a qualified attorney in your area.
- Estate Planning Software: There are several online software programs available that can help individuals create a basic estate plan. While these programs may not be suitable for everyone, they can be a helpful starting point for those who cannot afford to hire an attorney.
- Books on Estate Planning: There are numerous books available on estate planning that provide valuable information and guidance. Some popular titles include “Estate Planning for Dummies” by N. Brian Caverly and Jordan S. Simon, “Plan Your Estate” by Denis Clifford, and “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Estate Planning” by Stephen Maple.
Here are some related articles to this post about filing claims and VA disability benefits related to Camp LeJeune:
- All About the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination and Potential Benefits
- Civilians Impacted by Camp Lejeune
- Claims Timeline and How to File a Claim
Remember, estate planning can be a complex and sensitive matter, so it’s important to seek guidance from qualified professionals who can help you navigate the process and make informed decisions.
